NFC in Xiaomi smartphones: a full list of models with support for technology

NFC (Near Field Communication) technology has become an integral part of modern smartphones, allowing contactless payments, smart devices and tags to be read with a single touch. However, not all Xiaomi models are equipped with this module β€” especially for budget lines. In this article, we will discuss in detail which Xiaomi smartphones have NFC, how to check its availability and what to look for when choosing.

It's important to understand that NFC support is not just hardware-based, but also regional-based. For example, some models for the Chinese market (China ROM) may not support Google Pay even if they have a chip, and we've taken these nuances into account and put together a current list for 2026, including global (Global), European (EEA) and Indian (India) versions.

If you plan to use your smartphone to pay with a card via Mi Pay or Google Wallet, connect smart locks or automatization tags, this guide will help you avoid mistakes when buying, and we will also tell you how to enable NFC on Xiaomi and what features are available besides payments.

Why NFC is important in Xiaomi smartphones: key use cases

The NFC module in Xiaomi smartphones provides access to several useful features that go beyond simple payments.

  • πŸ’³ Contactless payments: Support for Google Pay, Mi Pay, Apple Pay (via emulation) and bank cards with technology HCE (Host Card Emulation: In some countries, such as Russia, it is the only legal way to pay with a smartphone.
  • πŸ”‘ Smart home and IoT: Quickly connect Xiaomi Mi Home devices (such as door sensors, Yeelight lamps or robot vacuum cleaners) without entering passwords – just attach the phone to the tag.
  • πŸ“± Data Transfer: Sharing contacts, links or files between devices via Android Beam (old, but some apps still support it).
  • πŸš‡ Transport and Passes: In some cities (e.g. Moscow, Beijing) NFC It is used to pay for subway or bus fares through apps like Troika or Metro.
  • πŸ”§ Automation: Reading NFC-tags to run scripts (for example, turning on Wi-Fi when touching a tag on your desktop).

Importantly, not all NFC features are available on all models, such as the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 in the global version supports Google Pay, and in the Chinese version only Mi Pay.

⚠️ Note: If you buy Xiaomi in the secondary market (like with Avito or AliExpress), be sure to check the firmware region (CN ROM) They often don’t support Google Pay, even if they do. NFC-chip!

How to check for NFC in your Xiaomi smartphone

If you already own a Xiaomi device and aren’t sure if it has NFC, there are a few ways to check it out:

  1. Settings: Go to Settings β†’ Connected Devices β†’ NFC (or Settings β†’ Settings β†’ NFC in older versions of MIUI). If there is no option, there is no module.
  2. Through specs: Enter the phone model on Xiaomi's official website or GSMArena database.Look for NFC: Yes.
  3. Through apps: Install a utility like NFC Tools from Google Play. If you run an error that says "NFC not detected" - no module.
  4. Physical inspection: On some models (e.g. Xiaomi 13 Pro), the NFC antenna is located at the top of the back panel. Apply the phone to another NFC device β€” if there is a vibration or an audible signal, the module works.

If NFC is available but not working, check:

  • πŸ”‹ Is the module included in the settings.
  • πŸ“± Is the firmware compatible with payment services (e.g. Global) ROM Google Pay for Google Pay).
  • πŸ› οΈ No physical damage to the antenna (for example, after a fall).
πŸ“Š What do you most often use for? NFC?
Contactless payments
Connecting smart devices
Transfer of data
Transport maps
I don't use it.

Full list of Xiaomi smartphones with NFC (2026)

Below is a table with current Xiaomi models that support NFC, and we have divided them into lines and indicated the regions where the module is available. Note: some models may only have NFC in certain versions (for example, Pro-modifications).

LineaModelRegions with NFCNotes
Flagships (Xiaomi)Xiaomi 14 UltraGlobal, EEA, ChinaGoogle Pay and Mi Pay support, antenna at the top
Xiaomi 13T ProGlobal, EEANo in the Chinese version (CN ROM)
Xiaomi 12S UltraGlobal, ChinaIn the Chinese version, only Mi Pay
Xiaomi Mix Fold 3China, Global (limited)In foldable models, the NFC antenna is located at the bottom.
Redmi (middle segment)Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5GGlobal, EEA, IndiaGoogle Pay Support in all regions
Redmi K60 ProChina, GlobalThere is no Google Pay in the Chinese version.
Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5GGlobal, EEANo in the Indian version (India ROM)
POCOPOCO F5 ProGlobal, EEARenamed Redmi K60 with NFC
POCO X5 Pro 5GGlobal, IndiaThe Indian version supports UPI payments
Budgetary modelsRedmi 12 5GEEA, GlobalNot in the Chinese and Indian versions.
POCO M6 Pro 5GIndia, GlobalGoogle Pay only supported in global firmware

Important: the table only lists current models for 2026.Outdated smartphones (such as Xiaomi Mi 9 or Redmi Note 9) may also have NFC, but their support for payment services may be limited due to outdated software.

Why do some models have NFC, but Google Pay doesn’t work?
In Chinese versions of firmware (CN ROM) Google Mobile Services Certification is often not available (GMS), Banks can also block card binding to devices with an unlocked bootloader or uncertified software. ROM or use Mi Pay (for China).

NFC in budget smartphones Xiaomi: myths and reality

Many users mistakenly believe that NFC is only in flagships, and in fact, even some Xiaomi budget models support the technology, but with reservations:

  • πŸ’° Redmi 10C (2022) β€” NFC There is only a version for Europe (EEA).
  • 🌍 POCO M4 Pro 5G β€” supportive NFC in the Indian and global versions, but not in the Chinese.
  • ❌ Redmi A2 β€” NFC not available in all regions.
  • βœ… Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G β€” One of the few people with full support for Google Pay.

The main problem with budget models is regional constraints, such as the Redmi 12C in Europe has NFC, but it doesn’t in India, because it saves money on certifying payment systems for underutilized markets.

⚠️ If you are buying a budget Xiaomi for the sake of NFC, Please specify the model code (for example, 23049PCD8G The last letters indicate the region: G is the global version, I is India, C is China.

Refine the model code (e.g., on the box or in the specifications)

Check out the region (EEA/Global/India/China)

Check out the feedback on Google Pay support on forums (e.g. 4PDA)

Ask the seller if you can return the money if NFC doesn't work-->

How to enable and configure NFC on Xiaomi: step-by-step instructions

If your smartphone supports you NFC, You can turn it on in a few steps. MIUI 14 and newer:

  1. Activate the module: Go to Settings β†’ Connected devices β†’ NFC and move the slider to the "On" position. On some models, the path may differ: Settings β†’ Additional β†’ Wireless Networks β†’ NFC.
  2. Payment settings: For Google Pay: Install the Google Wallet app from the Play Market. Add a bank card (Mastercard, Visa, World supported). Confirm the binding via SMS or banking application.
  3. Check: Bring your phone to the payment terminal (not more than 5 cm) If you see the word "Ready to pay" - everything is set up correctly.

For use NFC-tagging or connecting smart devices:

  1. Install the Mi Home or NFC Tools app.
  2. Turn on NFC in the settings.
  3. Hold the phone to a tag or device (such as a Yeelight lamp).
  4. Follow the instructions on the screen.

If NFC is not activated:

  • πŸ”„ Reboot the phone.
  • πŸ“² Update. MIUI last-minute.
  • πŸ› οΈ Reset network settings (Settings) β†’ System system β†’ Resetting settings β†’ Reset Wi-Fi, mobile network and Bluetooth).

πŸ’‘

If the terminal is not reading the payment, try attaching the phone to another part of the case – the NFC antenna can be shifted (for example, in Xiaomi 13 Lite it is closer to the camera).

NFC in smart watches and fitness bracelets Xiaomi

Beyond smartphones, NFC technology is used in Xiaomi wearables, but with limitations.

  • ⌚ Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro – Fully-fledged NFC for payments via Mi Pay (China only) and transport cards (for example, Troika in Moscow).
  • ⌚ Xiaomi Watch S3 β€” Alipay (China) and some transport cards, but not Google Pay.
  • πŸƒ Mi Band 8 Pro β€” NFC Only in the Chinese version for subway payments (e.g. in Beijing).

Importantly, unlike smartphones, Xiaomi wearables with NFC only work with Chinese payment systems (Mi Pay, Alipay), they are not suitable for Google Pay or bank cards, and the functionality depends on firmware - for example, the Xiaomi Watch S1 in the global version is devoid of NFC support.

If you want an NFC smartwatch for international payments, consider alternatives like the Samsung Galaxy Watch or Apple Watch.

πŸ’‘

Xiaomi’s NFC watches and bracelets are designed primarily for the Chinese market, and are not suitable for Google Pay or bank cards.

Frequent NFC Issues in Xiaomi and How to Solve Them

Even if your smartphone supports NFC, you may encounter problems, and consider typical situations and ways to fix them:

Problem.Possible causeDecision
NFC is not included in the settingsNo hardware support or damaged antennaCheck the model in the specifications or contact the service center
Google Pay is not working.Chinese firmware (CN ROM) or no certificationUse the Global ROM or use Mi Pay
The terminal doesn't read the payment.Wrong position of the phone or conflict with the caseRemove the case and attach the phone to the terminal by the other side.
NFC shuts down on its ownSaving battery power in MIUIDisable optimization for payment applications in Settings β†’ Battery
Labels don't read.Outdated version of MIUI or application conflictUpdate the software and reinstall applications for NFC

If none of these things worked, check if the NFC antenna is damaged, for example, after a phone drop or a rear panel repair. In some models (such as the Xiaomi 11T Pro), the antenna is integrated into the battery, so that when it is replaced, the NFC may stop working.

⚠️ Note: Some "grey" vendors claim that NFC You can add software. It's not possible -- it has to be built into the hardware of the smartphone. NFC "At the end of the day," you're a fraudster.

FAQ: Frequent questions about NFC in Xiaomi smartphones

Can I add NFC to Xiaomi if I don’t?
No, NFC is a hardware module that can't be installed or activated software, so if your model doesn't have NFC, the only way out is to buy another smartphone.
Why is there no Google Pay in the Chinese version of Xiaomi, even though there is NFC?
This is due to the lack of Google Mobile Services (GMS) certification in Chinese firmware, so you can either flash Global ROM or use Mi Pay (only in China).
Which Xiaomi NFC is Best to Buy for Contactless Payments?
For full work with Google Pay, we recommend: Xiaomi 13T Pro (Global/EEA) - the flagship with reliable NFC. Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G - the best option in terms of price / quality. POCO F5 Pro - if you need a powerful processor and NFC. Avoid Chinese versions (CN ROM) and clarify support for Google Pay before buying.
Can I use NFC to pay for transportation (for example, the subway)?
Yes, but only in some cities, such as: Moscow: via Troika app (supported by Xiaomi with NFC and MIUI 12+); Beijing/Shanghai: via Mi Pay (Chinese versions only); London: via Google Pay (needs global firmware); Check the list of supported devices on the transport operator's website.
Why did NFC stop working after MIUI update?
This may be due to: a firmware failure β€” try to roll back on the previous version; a conflict with updated Google Play services β€” clear the cache of the Google Wallet app; changes in security policy β€” some banks block payments on devices with unlocked bootloader. If the problem persists, contact Xiaomi with error logs.